Meet the 2013-2014 Director of Development: Sarah McSheffrey

What are your main responsibilities as the director of development?

One of my main responsibilities is to oversee the organization’s social and fundraising chairs. The executive board gives me certain tasks, and then I decide how to distribute them to the chairs. I support the chairs and help them with the preparation and execution of socials. We try to get as many committee members involved as possible.

What was your favorite event executed by the development committee this year?    

The first apartment social we had this year was my favorite. It was called a “Chill and Thrill Kind of Night.” It was our first one so we were both nervous and excited! The development committee put a lot of effort into it so it was really rewarding to see everyone having a good time. We got a lot of great feedback!

Why did you decide to join PRSSA?

I am a transfer student, so in my first semester at Illinois State someone came and talked about PRSSA in one of my classes. They mentioned that PRSSA does a lot of event planning, which is something I was and still am really interested in. I was looking to get involved in an organization, and PRSSA seemed like a good fit. After the first meeting, I was hooked! It provides a lot of opportunities to learn about the field of public relations.

When you’re not involved with PRSSA, what do you do in your free time?

I like to hang out with friends, especially with my roommates. We love to try out new restaurants in Normal, and we are trying to hit them all before graduating. I also love to watch movies and bake, especially cake pops!

What advice would you give to next year’s director of development?

Start early! Begin thinking about fundraising ideas right at your start of the position. Start planning socials and brainstorming new things you can bring to the committee. Also, think of unique ways to get committee members involved because that sometimes can be a challenge.

What is your favorite part of being a PRSSA member?

Since I was a transfer student I never had the dorm experience or the chance to meet other people outside of class. PRSSA was a great way to get involved at Illinois State University and meet other students. It has also given me a lot of professional experience.

What are your plans for the summer?

My plans for the summer are to start my job search! I hope to find a job in hotel event planning or nonprofit event planning. I also want to enjoy the summer since we had such a horrible winter. At the end of May I am planning to go to Ireland.

What is your dream job?

My dream job would be doing special events for Big Brothers/Big Sisters in Chicago. I really love the organization and the mission that they strive to fulfill.

Where would you like to travel that you have never been before?

Italy. I would love to try all the amazing food and sightsee since there are so many beautiful places to explore.

Why did you become a communication major?

I decided to pursue this major because I wanted to do event planning, and with a communication major you have a lot of opportunities for different jobs. The skills you learn can apply to a lot of different jobs, especially event planning.


Questions composed by Becca Williams

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